Residents in Rockland received some sound advice as insurance agents recommended buying separate flood insurance.

Insurance agencies say the federal government provides discounted flood insurance that anyone can purchase through insurance carriers. Numerous property owners in West Nyack lost thousands of dollars when waters from the Hackensack River overflowed last April. Many had insurance, but say it didn?t cover all the damages.

Those living in flood-prone areas are advised to purchase the additional insurance, but there is a caveat. Residents should shop around and read the fine print on policies to make sure they are completely covered. Also, agents say it takes about 30 days for a policy to go into effect, so residents should inquire sooner rather than later.